Staybridge Suites Cardiff

I’m really sad to write this because this has been our go-to place for child-free breaks. On previous visits, everything was spotless and we could just relax. This time we left thinking we may need to find somewhere else. The shower over the bath was greasy and slippery. As I stepped in, I slipped and only caught myself from hitting the floor by grabbing the radiator. My back is in bits today. Earlier, we’d noticed the room wasn’t up to the usual standard: spill marks in the slots of the unit under the TV, a pen line on the sofa, a stained footstool, a scaled-up shower head, smears on the glossy bedroom doors, dirty pans in the drawer, and thick dust on the pictures. There was also a draught coming through the curtain, and the room was cold. The heating wouldn’t work, so I told reception about that and the cleanliness. To be fair, the staff member fiddled with something behind reception and got the heating going. He said they were fully booked and it would be hard to move us, then offered an apology. He said we could take some beers from the fridge, but gave us prosecco instead. The room warmed up, so we made do with it.

The best thing was that everything felt new. It’s a lovely new build, with a very spacious studio, kitchen and big bathroom. I also made use of the gym and electric car charging. I was surprised when I arrived because I’d thought I was checking in at a Holiday Inn. Staybridge Suite gets five stars from me for the stay. One tip, though: I wouldn’t recommend the bar food across the way in the evening. Take an Uber somewhere else if you don’t want to be disappointed.

The breakfast buffet was included and had plenty to choose from: hot and cold food, fruit, oatmeal, Weetabix, a full English, muffins, croissants, yogurts, a fancy coffee machine and orange juice. The staff were friendly, and they held our luggage. We also liked how quiet the suite was, with the bedroom set away from the hallway. Our room had a bedroom, living room, entry area, kitchenette and two TVs. The decor was modern, clean and lovely. We only stayed one night and wished we’d booked longer. It’s about a 20-minute walk to both the town centre and waterfront, which was fine in summer, though it may be a bit much for some people. The location a little away from everything is reflected in the price. The bathroom lighting was dim. Parking cost £10 in summer 2025, and the lot fills quickly. Some people parked outside the marked spaces. We arrived early, left our bags with reception and kept the car parked for our whole stay. We’d stay at Staybridge Suites Cardiff again. We’re from California and in our early 50s.

The gym was the best part for me. The room was clean and modern, but the lighting felt harsh, and the kitchen setup was basically a small hotel room with an oven, a fridge and hardly any utensils. Parking is another £10. And I’d avoid eating at the Holiday Inn next door. The food was some of the worst I’ve had while staying away: just a basic bar menu, badly cooked. That surprised me, since food at most of their other hotels is usually a high standard.